Suspect at large in Tucson Craigslist shooting

TUCSON, Ariz. -- Buying and selling on-line has become a popular way to find bargains and make a fast profit, but a violent attack earlier this week shows how important it is to know who you're dealing with when you make a transaction.

Craigslist might be an easy way to buy, sell and trade, But on Wednesday a transaction at an apartment complex nearly turned deadly.

"We would have highly recommended that he met in a public place," said Deputy Dawn Barkman.

Sheriff's deputy Dawn Barkman says a 74-year old man selling an iPad on Craigslist decided to meet a potential buyer and the potential buyer shot him.

"Basically there was an exchange of phone conversations, they exchanged cell phone information. I understand the victim agreed to meet the suspect in a remote location, behind an apartment complex,"

The victim was hit in the shoulder and is expected to be okay.

"Craigslist is kind of the wild west of the Internet," said Kim States from the Better Business Bureau.

The Better Business Bureau offers some tips, which can also be found on the Craigslist site.

"Release as little information about yourself as you can don't look at this as an exchange of information," said States.

You can withhold your home address and even your cell phone number. Set up an email address to use only for on-line transactions, and limit your communication to email. Some sites even help you learn more about a user's history.

"There are a lot of on-line auction sites. I think the most commonly known one is eBay. The built in protections that eBay would lend you as a buyer and seller is that established track record," said States.

The most important thing, keep it public.

"Think about it. You're making an appointment with someone you don't really know and you're showing up with a product or with cash to hand over. It's a perfect crime," said States.

The sheriff's department is still looking for the suspect in Wednesday's shooting. He's described as a black man in his 20s wearing a white cap and skinny jeans.